First time deer hunter, any advice?

[WallsGa]

Well, not the first time, but the first time I’m taking it seriously. I finally found some land to hunt.

So, what all do I need? I haven’t been deer hunting in 25 years. Any suggestions on a rifle/caliber? What gear is really important and what is a huge waste of money?
Thanks,

 

[hops2899]

Gonna have to say, “go with your gut”. Don’t buy into the marketing. All the same calibers, rifles, clothes work the same today as they have for years. Go for the love of the sport and take the necessary items. rifle/bow , green/brown clothing, orange hat/vest. A climber can come later, if you want. Most important is reading the signs.

 

[hops2899]

I, too, took a 25 year break. Got back into it and was confused by all the products out there to help me be a better hunter. Hogwash! Study the land and sign, then go out and be still in the right spot and be patient. Count the birds, squirrels and take a nap. Enjoy the day, then kick back at the campfire and listen to the coyotes.

 

[Justin87]

Hunting license, Orange vest and a rifle with ammo. Those are the only must haves.

 

[rtaylor112]

Don't buy into the commercialism of needing all of the special high dollar clothes and gadgets. Get what's comfortable to you and good boots are a must have

 

[Bypass]

I use to smoke Marlboro reds and kill deer easy peasy. It wasn't even a challenge but I love the taste of deer. My advice go find you a nice spot high on a hill with a pretty view and wait. The deer probably like that spot as well. AND wear your hunter orange. Too many yahoos in the woods today shooting at movement.

 

[Rgrbulldog]

Congrats on getting back to it!

 

[Justin87]

I use to smoke Marlboro reds and kill deer easy peasy.

I used to use cover scent until my older brother laughed at me one morning and said "you use that I'll smoke this cigarette and we'll see who kills a deer". He killed the deer.

 

[militaryrednek]

the only peice of clothing advise i would give is get a good pair of waterproof boots and socks. nothing sucks more that sitting in the woods with wet feet.

 

[UptaCamp]

Good luck this coming deer rifle season. In GA, .243, 6 mm, 6.5 mm, .270, 30-30, .308 and 30-06 are all capable calibers that will get the job done. Whichever rifle you can find the best deal on, grab it and go.